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URGENT UPDATE: As of April 2024, ACP will run out of funding and is no longer accept applications. This impacts 23 million Americans. However, switching to a low-cost carrier can save you more than $30 per month on your cell phone service. To help, we have compiled a list of the cheapest cell phone plans from the best MVNOs.
Internet access isn't a luxury these days - it's a necessity. That means it can be very stressful if you're struggling to pay your home internet or cell phone bill.
If you need help staying connected, consider the Optimum Affordable Connectivity Program (ACP). This program helps low-income households with discounted or free Optimum internet service or Optimum Mobile phone service.
Read along as I guide you through the details of the Optimum ACP, including eligibility criteria and how the program works.
What is the Optimum Affordable Connectivity Program?
The Affordable Connectivity Program is what the FCC has put into place to replace the Emergency Broadband Benefit (EBB). Its primary goal is to help low-income households stay connected.
Optimum is a participating provider in the Affordable Connectivity Program, offering discounted high-speed internet services to eligible households.
Benefits of the Optimum ACP
Qualified households can receive the following:
- A monthly credit of up to $30 on your internet bill
- Up to $75 off internet service for residents of Tribal lands
It's important to note that each eligible household is limited to one Affordable Connectivity benefit.
Optimum ACP plans
You can apply your benefit to your choice of Optimum Internet or Optimum Mobile.
Optimum ACP internet plans
The ACP discount can be applied to any Optimum internet plan, including:
- 300 Mbps fiber internet - free with ACP benefit
- 500 Mbps fiber internet - around $20 a month with ACP
- 1 Gig fiber internet - around $40 per month with ACP
Optimum ACP phone plans
If preferred, you can apply your discount to an Optimum Mobile plan of your choice. Some examples include:
- 3GB high-speed data per month - free with ACP benefit
- Unlimited data plan with 5GB mobile hotspot data - free with ACP
- Unlimited Max with 15GB mobile hotspot data - around $10 with ACP
Plan options can change with time and vary by location, so be sure to check with the participating provider about which ACP plans they have available.
Optimum ACP eligibility
You may be eligible for the ACP if your household income falls at or below 200% of the Federal Poverty Guidelines.
According to Federal Government rules, you can also qualify if you or a household member participates in one or more of the following government assistance programs:
- Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Program (SNAP)
- Medicaid
- Federal Pell Grant (in current award year)
- Free or reduced-price school lunch program or school breakfast (including Community Eligibility Provision)
- WIC (Women, Infants, and Children)
- Veterans Pension or Survivor Benefits
- SSI (Supplemental Security Income)
- Lifeline
Additionally, households may qualify through Tribal-specific programs, such as:
- Tribal TANF (Temporary Assistance for Needy Families),
- Bureau of Indian Affairs General Assistance
- Food Distribution on Indian Reservations
- Income-based Tribal Head Start
If you participate in any of these programs and live in qualifying Tribal lands, you could receive an internet discount of $75 with the enhanced Tribal benefit.
How to apply for the Optimum ACP
To enroll in Optimum's Affordable Connectivity Program, follow these steps:
- Gather the necessary documents (see below).
- Visit the Get Internet website and click on the Apply button.
- Complete the National Verifier application.
- Once you receive approval, visit Optimum to choose an internet or cell phone plan.
- Visit the Optimum ACP enrollment page to complete the process.
Your discount will be applied to your account by the second billing cycle.
Optimum ACP required documents
You may be required to provide documentation to verify your identity and participation in a government assistance program.
These could include:
- Valid driver's license or state ID, passport, Green Card, or others
- Benefit letter proving your participation in programs like Medicaid
- Benefit verification letter for SSI or others
For detailed application instructions, including what documents you can use, refer to our guide on how to apply for ACP.
Other options for affordable internet
Don't qualify for the Optimum ACP? No worries. You can still save up to $700 annually by switching to a Mobile Virtual Network Operator (MVNO).
MVNOs are powered by the AT&T, T-Mobile, and Verizon networks. Optimum Mobile plans run on the T-Mobile network, giving you reliable 4G LTE and 5G wireless coverage at a fraction of the cost.
MVNO advantages
Switching to a low-cost carrier comes with several benefits, including:
- Lower pricing
- No contracts
- Flexible plans
- Features like mobile hotspot data
- Add-ons such as international calling
Compare cell phone plans now to see how much money you could be putting back in your pocket.
Optimum Affordable Connectivity Program FAQs
No problem. Plug your ZIP code into our tool to locate ACP companies in your area.
It generally takes about 24-48 hours for your application to be processed.
Yes. This participating provider offers the option to apply your Affordable Connectivity Program credit to your Optimum Mobile service.
Recap
The Affordable Connectivity Program benefit offers new and current Optimum Internet customers a way to reduce costs or even get a free phone plan or internet service.
If you don't meet the eligibility criteria, a low-cost carrier can save you a bundle without sacrificing quality or coverage. Apply now to get started saving money.
